January 7th - March 20th

Come enjoy our temperate winter weather. This is the time of year to see the background shrubs and trees of summer standing out more prominently in the various gardens. Take a look at our 'What to See' plant guide at the bottom of this page. You'll be surprised what grows in a temperate winter climate.

Filmed by our friends at the Shaw Daily on a snowy day in mid-January, enjoy this short video on Karen's take of this time of year. Click for video. (The snow has since melted!)

Spring Prelude indoor garden — January 15th - April 1st

In only 7 days, the Blue Poppy Restaurant is turned...	...into a stunning, large flower filled indoor garden

Step out of Winter and into Spring! It's as easy as that when you stroll the paths in our astonishing indoor garden. Beds of daffodils and tulips, with flowering cherries, witch hazel and viburnum fill the stone-flagged Blue Poppy conservatory with all the joys of Spring. The combination of plant material is unusual enough to send any indoor gardener home bursting with fresh inspiration.

See what a 12-month pass holder blogged about Spring Prelude.

This is also a great time to walk about the gardens and see the essential trees and shrubs. It is these which frame the seasonal floral presentations.

The Spring Prelude indoor garden closes at 3:30pm on some days to accommodate weddings. Please check our Hours of Operation page for updates.

Historical Display — January 15th - March 15th

"Benvenuto", the family residence, is open during our warm wintry weather for visitors to view a display of memorabilia chronicling the development of the cement making plant, and the ensuing development of Jennie Butchart’s garden. Furnishings, correspondence, and photographs follow the development of the Gardens and allow the visitor to step back into the graciousness of the period. Staff members are on hand to assist visitors with their questions. High Tea, served in the Dining Room Restaurant, is available daily.

Learn more on The Gardens history by clicking here .